VALENCIA, Nov 14 – The devastating DANA storm that hit eastern Valencia, Spain on October 30 has led to massive flooding and claimed 223 lives, marking it as the region’s worst disaster in decades.

Rescue teams continue to search for victims, while survivors face serious hardships, with many lacking electricity and basic necessities.

There is an urgent need for food, water, clothing, blankets, hygiene products, baby supplies, and cleanup assistance.

Valencia has extended school closures and shut down social centers, parks, cemeteries, and sports facilities to ensure public safety.

This decision by the Municipal Emergency Coordination Center (Cecopal) follows warnings from the Spanish Meteorological Agency, as the storm continues to affect parts of Alicante, Castellón, and is now impacting Malaga in the south.

Public health concerns are also rising, with two confirmed cases of leptospirosis linked to floodwaters. Authorities are closely monitoring for more cases due to contamination risks.

Islamic Relief (IR) Spain has been actively assisting by distributing essential supplies like food, water, hygiene items, and cleaning tools in hard-hit areas, such as Paiporta.

They mobilized 100 volunteers over the weekend to help clean streets and homes and delivered halal food to affected households.

At the moment, IR Spain has allocated €50,000 for ongoing support, supporting those impacted by the floods, especially vulnerable groups, and is closely monitoring the situation in Malaga in case more help is needed.